Allas Pool

Right next to Helsinki’s Market Square, Allas Pool offers a mix of traditional Finnish sauna culture and modern urban vibes. Open year-round, it features a heated 25m pool at 27°C, a sea water pool that mirrors the Baltic’s temperature (ideal for winter dips), and a children's pool available during summer. The complex houses five saunas—three at pool level and two indoors—offering a chance to unwind with sea views.

• Web:

  www.allaspool.fi

• E-mail:

  info@allaspool.fi

• Address:

  Katajanokanlaituri 2, Helsinki

• Phone:

  +358 40 565 6582

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 6:30am–9pm, Sat & Sun 8am–9pm

Esplanade Park

Locals call it “Espa” — a green strip running through central Helsinki, flanked by old trees, statues, and a few cafés. It’s where people stroll, sit with ice cream, or watch the world go by. In summer, the open-air Espa Stage hosts free gigs, from jazz to folk. Bigger events like the Marimekko Fashion Show and midsummer celebrations also take over the park.

• Address:

  Pohjoisesplanadi, Helsinki

Finlandia Hall

Designed by legendary architect Alvar Aalto, Finlandia Hall is one of Helsinki’s most iconic landmarks. From light fixtures to door handles, Aalto’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout. This striking building, located in the city centre, is a dynamic venue for concerts, conferences, and events of all kinds – there’s always something happening behind its marble façade.

• Web:

  https://finlandiatalo.fi

• Address:

  Mannerheimintie 13 e, Helsinki

• Phone:

  +358 9 40241

Helsinki Archipelago

Helsinki has around 300 islands, many just a short boat ride from the city. In summer, it’s easy to spend a day island-hopping — some spots have cafés or restaurants, others are all about nature and quiet. Ferries run regularly to popular islands, or you can paddle or sail your way there. Whether you're into walking trails, sea views, or just finding a quiet rock to sit on, there's an island for it.

Helsinki Cathedral

This is the main church for Helsinki’s Lutheran community and part of the city’s Empire-style core designed by Carl Ludvig Engel. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a symbol of the city itself. Inside, it’s mostly a quiet spot for services, but you can also catch concerts here now and then. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth swinging by to see the clean lines and that iconic green dome standing over Senate Square.

• Web:

  https://helsingintuomiokirkko.fi/en/index.html

• Address:

  Unioninkatu 29, Helsinki

• Phone:

  +358 9 23406120

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Oodi is a striking example of modern Finnish design and a space where people come to read, work, relax and meet. Located right in the heart of Helsinki, opposite Parliament House, the library offers much more than books—from studios and workspaces to a café, cinema, and sweeping city views from the top floor.

• Web:

  https://oodihelsinki.fi/en

• E-mail:

  oodi@hel.fi

• Address:

  Töölönlahdenkatu 4, Helsinki

• Phone:

  +358 9 31085000

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 8am–9pm, Sat & Sun 10am–8pm

Flow Festival

Held every August in a former power plant area near the city centre, Flow Festival mixes big-name artists with indie acts, visual art, and seriously mouth-watering food. It’s known for its sharp lineup, chill crowd, and stylish setup—not your average festival field. If you're into music and design, this one's worth timing your trip around.

• Web:

  www.flowfestival.com/en

Helsinki Christmas Market

You don’t have to head far north to get into the Finnish Christmas spirit. The market in Senate Square, surrounded by grand old buildings, is Helsinki’s oldest and biggest Christmas fair. It’s where locals sell handmade crafts and traditional treats, making it a great spot to soak up festive vibes and pick up authentic gifts.

• Web:

  https://tuomaanmarkkinat.fi/en

Helsinki Day

Helsinki turns into a big birthday party every 12 June with free concerts, pop-up events, guided tours, and activities all over the city. Most of it happens in the centre, but neighbourhoods outside the core join in as well. It’s a great day to catch local culture in full swing.

• Web:

  https://helsinkipaiva.fi/en

Helsinki Design Week

Held every September, Helsinki Design Week takes over the city with exhibitions, talks, markets, and open studios. It’s a great time to dip into Finnish design and see what local creatives are working on—from architecture and interiors to fashion and tech.

• Web:

  https://helsinkidesignweek.com

• Address:

  Around Helsinki

Helsinki Festival

Finland’s biggest arts festival takes over the city each August with everything from classical concerts and theatre to modern dance, visual art, and pop gigs. It’s a mix of highbrow and laid-back, with plenty that’s free or easy to dip into, especially during the popular Night of the Arts.

• Web:

  https://helsinkifestival.fi/en

Helsinki International Film Festival – Love & Anarchy

Every September, Helsinki screens a sharp mix of indie films, international hits, and bold new voices in cinema. If you’re into films that don’t play it safe, this is your festival. Most screenings are in English or have English subtitles, so it’s easy for travellers to join in.

• Web:

  https://hiff.fi/en